Sam Smith has officially announced their fifth studio album, Hazel Eyes, scheduled for release on August 21, 2025, via Capitol Records UK. The announcement follows the debut of the album’s lead single, "My Guy," a minimalist track that focuses on Smith’s vocal performance. This project serves as the follow-up to their 2023 record, Gloria, and features collaborations with artists including Feist and multi-instrumentalist Shahzad Ismaily.
The Creative Development of ‘Hazel Eyes’
According to an official statement, Hazel Eyes was recorded primarily in New York, with sessions taking place at the historic Electric Lady Studios. Smith worked closely with longtime collaborator Simon Aldred to develop the 12-track collection over a three-year period. In a statement regarding the creative process, Smith described the record as a deeply personal exploration of romantic themes and life lessons learned during the album’s production. Smith also noted their increased involvement in the technical side of the project, taking on a producer role to oversee the album from inception to completion.
Tracklist and Featured Artists
The album features a diverse range of contributions, moving beyond Smith’s solo work to include high-profile guests. The full tracklist for Hazel Eyes is as follows:
- Everlasting Love
- Hazel Eyes
- Moondance (feat. Feist)
- My Guy
- When He’s Gone
- Thief
- Love Is A Stillness
- Sugar Rush
- Oh Mother (feat. The Two City Chorus)
- Constant Companion
- Hold On
- To Be Free
The inclusion of Feist and Shahzad Ismaily marks a shift in Smith’s collaborative approach, incorporating textures from artists known for their work with independent and experimental acts like Yoko Ono and Damien Rice.
Contextualizing the New Era
The rollout for Hazel Eyes coincides with a significant live appearance. Smith is scheduled to perform at the Booking.com Theater at the Stonewall National Monument Visitor Center on June 27, 2025, to mark the start of NYC Pride Weekend.
This release arrives following the critical reception of Gloria, which earned a four-star review from NME. In that assessment, NME highlighted Smith’s vocal confidence, noting that the singer’s willingness to utilize intricate backing vocals indicated a shift toward a more collaborative and secure artistic identity. The transition from the commercial success of Gloria to the more intimate, "restrained" sound of "My Guy" suggests that Smith is prioritizing vocal clarity and narrative-driven songwriting for this fifth studio effort.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the release date for Sam Smith’s ‘Hazel Eyes’?
The album is set for global release on August 21, 2025.
Who are the featured artists on the album?
The album features collaborations with Canadian singer-songwriter Feist and multi-instrumentalist Shahzad Ismaily, along with The Two City Chorus.
Where was the album recorded?
Much of the recording process took place in New York, specifically at the legendary Electric Lady Studios.
Is the album available for pre-order?
Yes, fans can pre-order the album through Smith’s official website and major digital retailers.